"1861" Medal Fort Sumter White Metal 70mm Robert Anderson

Coin Details

Auction Record

$19,800 SP55 06-23-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 70mm white metal medal commemorates Major Robert Anderson and the defense of Fort Sumter, the engagement that opened the American Civil War on April 12-14, 1861. White metal — a tin-based alloy — was commonly used for widely distributed commemorative medals during the Civil War era, as it was inexpensive and could be cast or struck in large quantities for patriotic purposes. Anderson's defense of Fort Sumter against Confederate bombardment electrified the North and transformed him into one of the first Union heroes of the war. The 70mm format matches the copper version of this medal type, providing generous space for Anderson's portrait and commemorative inscriptions. The white metal composition indicates this version was intended for broader distribution among the general public, while copper and silver versions served the collector and presentation markets. Fort Sumter medals were among the earliest Civil War commemoratives produced, reflecting the intense public interest in the event that plunged the nation into four years of devastating conflict. The medal documents the moment when political crisis became military reality.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. White metal medals from the Civil War era are fragile and many examples have been damaged or lost. Surviving examples in good condition are valued by collectors.

Cross References

PCGS #798420